From the Friars: Important Distinctions

Pope Francis is known for saying things “off the cuff” which cause a stir in the media, especially during his in-flight press conferences. This happened again recently when he commented on the upcoming presidential election in the United States. One good thing about the confusion caused is that it can be an occasion to clarify the teaching of the Church.

The Holy Father was blunt about the evils of abortion and not welcoming migrants, saying that both are “anti-life”, adding that the voter must choose the lesser of two evils. First, it is very important to remember that abortion is intrinsically wrong. The direct killing of an innocent child can never be justified, regardless of the circumstances. The right to life is fundamental and precedes all others.

Immigration is a different type of issue. People do have the right to migrate, but it is limited and entails moral obligations also. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that more prosperous nations are obliged to welcome foreigners “to the extent they are able” and authorities may make the right to immigrate “subject to various juridical conditions.” (CCC 2241) These qualifications allow for the necessary discernment of a prudent and just immigration policy for each nation. The right to migrate does not mean unlimited access to any country of one’s choice.

Neither candidate from the two major parties is completely pro-life or pro unlimited immigration. Clearly, Kamala Harris is sadly far more radical in her promotion of virtually unlimited access to abortion. Former President Trump is known for his strong rhetoric against illegal immigration and proposals to deport large numbers of undocumented people. However, the Biden-Harris administration already has nearly 4.4 million combined deportations and expulsions, more than any other single presidential term since George W. Bush’s second term. (Migration Policy Institute)

Politics is a messy business. And the Church allows that sometimes it is licit to choose the lesser of two evils. It is also legitimate to choose a third party or other candidate, even though they may not have a realistic chance of winning. Let us pray especially for the conversion of hearts, and that our country will protect unborn children and generously welcome immigrants with legitimate need.

God bless you.
–Fr. Peter